NREL Vision
A clean energy future for the world
Achieving Our Vision:
Energy Justice
NREL's vision means leading an energy transition in which solutions are inclusively designed and benefits are equitably distributed. NREL is a leader in applied clean energy practices, working with thousands of communities nationally and around the world, many of which have been historically underserved in terms of access to clean energy or its benefits.
Learn more about how NREL places energy justice at the center of our mission-driven work.
NREL has decades of focused leadership in clean energy research, development, and deployment. No other institution has the long-standing expertise and breadth of knowledge that will form the foundation of the clean energy transition.
From our work in basic sciences to systems engineering and analysis, all our researchers are focused on solving market-relevant problems that result in deployable solutions. Our partnerships ensure our work is relevant and applicable to the energy problems that people are trying to solve.
We are the trusted clean energy leaders, and our work will guide the nation in achieving ambitious goals in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and a decarbonized clean energy future.
NREL's Long-Term Strategic Vision
Watch how NREL is charting a course for a clean energy future for the world.
Transforming Energy Through Science
As climate change, urbanization, economic development, electrification, cyberthreats, and resource competition all increase, the demand these developments place on the world's energy sources will increase with them. As we meet the challenges presented by these megatrends, we must do so in a low-emissions and sustainable way that is inclusive of all people. This challenge will be met through NREL's three critical objectives.
Integrated Energy Pathways
Modernizes our grid to support a high level of renewable energy integration, incorporates storage and advanced controls, and expands transportation electrification while maintaining grid reliability and security
Electrons to Molecules
Uses affordable, renewable electricity to convert low-energy molecules—such as water and carbon dioxide—to generate cleaner, higher-value, and higher-energy chemicals, fuels, and materials
Circular Economy for Energy Materials
Reduces waste and preserves resources by designing materials and products with reuse, recycling, and upcycling in mind from the start
Leadership Perspectives
NREL leaders regularly contribute to the online publishing platform Medium to share their experiences and unique perspectives on the direction of the lab.
Using an Energy Compass: NREL's 10-Year Vision To Meet Future Needs
By Martin Keller, laboratory director
The Circular Economy Can Renew Renewable Energy Technologies
By Bill Tumas, associate laboratory director
Why Not Use Cheap Renewable Electrons To Create Industry’s Building Blocks?
By Adam Bratis, associate laboratory director
Modernizing Our Energy Systems Will Help Us Engage the Future
By Juan Torres and Johney Green, associate laboratory directors